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University Research |
Colorado State University College of Agricultural Sciences Organic Soil, Crop and Pasture Studies Three comprehensive three-year soil and crop studies with Colorado State University’s College of Agricultural Sciences came to an end in 2010. This research focused on growing perennial forage crops and optimizing soil fertility for organic pasture development in the Rocky Mountain West. We plan to share the findings with the organic agriculture community to build the industry’s knowledge base and capabilities, particularly in Northern Colorado -- one of the most productive dairy regions in the country -- and home to Colorado State University. Organic Agriculture Program Scholarships The Organic Agriculture Program in the College of Agricultural Sciences at Colorado State University was established in 2006. To further the growth and development of organic agriculture and support today’s youth in pursuing careers in organic agriculture, we pledged funding for Organic Agriculture Program student scholarships. In its first year, seven students participated and received $1,000 scholarships from Aurora Organic Dairy. In subsequent years, the program has grown and we now provide $20,000 annually for scholarships that go to students pursuing a career in organic agriculture. We are pleased to support this program, as it is one of the few agricultural degree programs devoted to organic agriculture in the United States. Our contributions help the College of Agricultural Sciences in its mission to reward outstanding scholarship through affordable student access to a rigorous course of study, hands-on participation in groundbreaking research, experiential learning and a practical approach to career preparation.
University of Michigan Michigan School of Natural Resources & Environment Environmental Footprint Analysis The University of Michigan’s School of Natural Resources and Environment has completed the first and second phases of their research on Aurora Organic Dairy’s environmental footprint analysis. Phase 1 analyzed Aurora Organic Dairy’s complete carbon footprint and energy expenditures – from seed to shelf. Phase 2 updated this life cycle assessment (LCA) of greenhouse gas emissions and primary energy consumption, and added key environmental indicators, including water use, solid waste disposal and nutrients flowing in and out of Aurora Organic Dairy’s operations. The final phase of the research will benchmark the company’s environmental footprint and set goals for reduction and improvement. These will be shared in Aurora Organic Dairy’s first-ever corporate sustainability report, to be released in 2012.
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